Sharif also ended a six-year moratorium on the death penalty in terrorism cases.

Critics have argued that quick-fix measures such as military courts or reinstating the death penalty do little to improve the legal process.

The leading English-language newspaper Dawn called it a "sad day" in an editorial. It accused political leaders of being unable to defend the country's constitutional and democratic roots or resist the "generals' demands".

"Yes, we need a coherent strategy to fight militancy and political and military leaders to work together. But military courts are not the answer," Dawn said.

The TTP said the attack was in retaliation for an ongoing Pakistan Army operation n the North Waziristan tribal area that had killed many of their family members.